Overview
There are few experiences as universal to human existence as pregnancy and childbirth, and yet its most difficult parts — perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) — are still dealt with in the shadows, shrouded in stigma. The fact is 1 in 5 new and expecting birthing people will experience a PMAD, yet among those who do many are afraid to talk about it, some are not even aware they’re experiencing one, and others don’t know where to turn for help. The fact is, when someone suffers from a maternal mental health disorder it affects not only them, their babies, partners, and families - it impacts our communities.
In the Previa Alliance Podcast series, Sarah Parkhurst and Whitney Gay are giving air to a vastly untapped topic by creating a space for their guests — including survivors of PMADs and healthcare professionals in maternal mental health — to share their experiences and expertise openly. And in doing so, Sarah and Whitney make it easy to dig deep and get real about the facts of perinatal mental health, fostering discussions about the raw realities of motherhood. Not only will Previa Alliance Podcast listeners walk away from each episode with a sense of belonging, they’ll also be armed with evidence-based tools for healing, coping mechanisms, and the language to identify the signs and symptoms of PMADs — the necessary first steps in a path to treatment. The Previa Alliance Podcast series is intended for anyone considering pregnancy, currently pregnant, and postpartum as well as the families and communities who support them.
Sarah Parkhurst
Previa Alliance Podcast Co-host; Founder & CEO of Previa Alliance
A postpartum depression survivor and mom to two boys, Sarah is on a mission to destigmatize the experiences of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), and to educate the world on the complex reality of being a mom. Sarah has been working tirelessly to bring to light the experiences of women who have not only suffered a maternal mental health crisis but who have survived it and rebuilt their lives. By empowering women to share their own experiences, by sharing expert advice and trusted resources, and by advocating for health care providers and employers to provide support for these women and their families, Sarah believes as a society we can minimize the impact of the current maternal mental health crisis, while staving off future ones.
Whitney Gay
Previa Alliance Podcast Co-host; licensed clinician and therapist
For the past ten years, Whitney has been committed to helping women heal from the trauma of a postpartum mental health crisis as well as process the grief of a miscarriage or the loss of a baby. She believes that the power of compassion paired with developing critical coping skills helps moms to heal, rebuild, and eventually thrive. In the Previa Alliance Podcast series, Whitney not only shares her professional expertise, but also her own personal experiences of motherhood and recovery from grief.
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175 Episodes
In this episode, Sarah and Whitney are giving you real mental health toolbox tips (and some life-lesson therapy truths) to help you survive the transition back to school. Because unfortunately, your nervous system doesn’t know the difference between being chased by a saber-tooth tiger and a Monday morning car line meltdown. From breathwork to boundary setting, thought reframes to sensory resets—we’ve got the tools you didn’t know you needed.
Transcribed - Published: 11 August 2025
In this episode, Sarah sits down with veteran educator Pam to talk about one of the trickiest parts of parenting: how to actually communicate with your child’s teacher. From academic concerns to social dynamics, they explore what works, what doesn’t, and why taking a thoughtful pause before hitting “send” on that email can make all the difference. Pam shares personal stories and practical strategies for building respectful, effective relationships with teachers—including the power of face-to-...
Transcribed - Published: 4 August 2025
Your favorite maternal mental therapist is back answering your questions! From not loving every second of motherhood, mom guilt, to feeling the weight of that super mom cape to knowing when it is postpartum depression vs baby blues we dive into what you want to hear! Love Hey Whitney episodes? Don’t forget to go back and listen to our previous episodes.
Transcribed - Published: 28 July 2025
We’ve all heard about the infamous sugary drink 🥤—but what exactly is Gestational Diabetes (GDM), and why does it matter beyond just blood sugar levels? In this episode, Sarah sits down with Dr. Kevin Shrestha, a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist, to break it all down. They discuss: ✅ What Gestational Diabetes is and how it’s diagnosed ✅ The impact on both mom’s and baby’s health ✅ How GDM can affect mental health during pregnancy and postpartum ✅ Steps you can take to manage it and advocate...
Transcribed - Published: 21 July 2025
Can giving birth be traumatic? Harvard researcher Dr. Sharon Dickel says yes—and it’s more common than you think. In this eye-opening episode, she breaks down the biology of postpartum PTSD, the signs we often miss, and why better screening and trauma-informed care are urgently needed. If you care about maternal health, this conversation will change how you see birth forever. More about Dr. Sharon Dekel: Dr. Sharon Dekel is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School (HMS) ...
Transcribed - Published: 14 July 2025
From love bombing, gaslighting, manipulation, and denial if you have ever interacted with a narcissist, you have encountered the above tactics. In today’s part 2 episode Sarah and Whitney talk about common phrases or traits of a narcissist and how to set boundaries and respond.
Transcribed - Published: 7 July 2025
In this episode, Sarah and Whitney delve into the concept of narcissism, its origins, and how it impacts relationships. They discuss how narcissism is a learned behavior rather than a genetic trait and explore the different types of narcissism—grandiose, covert, malignant, and communal. The conversation highlights the challenges of dealing with narcissistic individuals and emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and seeking professional help. Tune in as they examine the patterns and b...
Transcribed - Published: 30 June 2025
Did you know that Title IX protects you throughout pregnancy and postpartum? 🤰🏽🎓 Whether you're navigating pregnancy in your first semester of college, figuring out how to pump during clinical hours, or managing postpartum depression in grad school—you have rights! In today’s episode, Sarah sits down with Aria Allan, a mom, lawyer, and the Title IX & Civil Rights Compliance Officer at Auburn University, to break down what Title IX means for student parents and how you can advocate for you...
Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2025
Becoming a mom changes you in ways you never expect. For Michele Lampach, it ignited a passion to fight for better support for parents. As a human rights attorney, nonprofit leader, and mom of two, Michele has spent her career advocating for vulnerable communities. Now, as the head of Bobbie for Change, she’s working to shift the conversation around infant feeding and modern parenthood—pushing for better policies that actually support families. In this episode, Michele opens up about her own ...
Transcribed - Published: 16 June 2025
In today’s episode Sarah sits down with Dr. Claire Smith, Reproductive Psychiatrist, to hear Claire’s experience from pregnancy to first year postpartum. As a Reproductive Psychiatrist everyday Dr. Smith treats women who experience depression, loss, infertility, and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum. But how does being a maternal mental health specialist come to play when you go down your own journey of pregnancy and postpartum. Listen in as Dr. Smith shares her journey. More about Dr. ...
Transcribed - Published: 9 June 2025
Sarah and Amy, CEO of Pump Spotting, dive into the raw, unfiltered reality of breastfeeding, pumping, and the pressure new moms face. From midnight feedings to workplace struggles, they unpack why support—at home, at work, and in the world—makes all the difference. About Amy VanHaren: Amy VanHaren is the CEO and founder of Pumpspotting, a women’s health technology company. Pumpspotting is closing the gap in maternal health through accessible breastfeeding solutions. Amy created Pumpspotting a...
Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2025
In this eye-opening episode, Sarah and Dr. Kevin Shrestha have an honest conversation about preeclampsia—one of the silent but serious dangers of pregnancy. They share the signs every woman should watch for, why your instincts matter, and how speaking up when something doesn’t feel right can truly save your life. Whether you're expecting, recovering, or supporting someone who is—this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Kevin Shrestha MD, MPH, is board certified OBGYN and currently a Maternal Fetal ...
Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2025
1-833-TLC-MAMA What if one call could change everything for a struggling mom? In this episode, Sarah is joined by Jamie Belsito, fierce advocate and founder of the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance. Together, they talk about the journey that led to the creation of the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, why maternal mental health is a policy issue, and how we can finally stop failing mothers one text or call at a time. More about Jamie Belsito Jamie founded MMHLA in 2019 to prio...
Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2025
For Maternal mental health awareness month listen in as Sarah and Whitney discuss the different prenatal mood and anxiety disorders that moms experience during pregnancy and postpartum and how they may present. From anxiety, depression, ocd, to ptsd this is a overview episode, to learn more in-depth on each please see in our “What is” series from May 24! Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@p...
Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2025
How do you start a conversation with someone about the most common complication of pregnancy? How do you talk about anxiety and depression or traumatic birth? Listen in as Whitney and Sarah break down how to approach someone about Maternal Mental Health and most importantly equip them. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to [email protected] or DM us on Instagram!
Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025
In this episode Sarah speaks with Kendra Adachi, a three-time New York Times bestselling author, podcaster, and expert on compassionate time management about how to implement her Lazy Genius principles into our lives. From living in your season without resentment to the benefit of therapy this is a must listen episode to “be genius about what matters and lazy about what doesn't”. About Kendra Kendra Adachi is a New York Times bestselling author, nationally ranked podcaster, wife, and mo...
Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025
In honor of Infertility Awareness Week, Sarah sits down with crowd favorites Erin and Stephen Mitchell from Couples Counseling for Parents to discuss how trying to conceive, infertility, and pregnancy loss affect relationships. From self-blame to communication breakdown, this honest conversation explores navigating this incredibly difficult journey and having hard conversations with yourself and your partner. Erin and Stephen are the cofounders of Couples Counseling for Parents, a compa...
Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025
Sarah and Lori explore why unpaid family care is undervalued and how this impacts stay-at-home moms. Lori shares her personal journey, debunking myths and offering resources to redefine motherhood in a way that honors mental health and self-worth. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on shifting societal views and creating a more equitable family dynamic. Lori Sugarman-Li believes deeply in the power of families and is a passionate voice in the cultural shift aiming to articulate the value...
Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025
If you are in therapy yourself you know what brought you and why. But, have you ever thought what other reasons are there to seek therapy? In this week we episode Sarah quizzes Whitney on what brings clients to see her. From life transitions, maternal mental health, or grief we guarantee you can relate. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to [email protected] or DM us on Instagram!
Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025
In this week’s episode Sarah and Whitney discuss a common yet not talked about enough experience: anger in pregnancy. From the flood of emotions that takes over to the deeper issues at the core, listen in to learn more. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to [email protected] or DM us on Instagram!
Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025
Struggling with sleep transitions? đź’¤ In our latest episode, sleep expert Unnati Patel shares game-changing tips for moving your little one from a crib to a toddler bed, breaking tricky sleep associations, handling nightmares, early wakeups, and sibling sleep dynamics. Tune in and get ready to equip you and yourself for more rest! *Have a younger child? Check out our previous episodes with Unnati! Want to connect with Unnati? Nested To Rested Sleep Consulting | Baby Sleep and Toddler Sle...
Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025
In today’s episode, we get to pull back the curtains into what is going in the mind of a therapist, and how they implement what they teach in their daily lives. From how they get themselves out of fight or flight to mentally resetting, tune in to hear more. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to [email protected] or DM us on Instagram!
Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025
Leah Ruppanner is a Professor of Sociology and Founding Director of The Future of Work Lab at the University of Melbourne. She was previously a Director of The Policy Lab at the University of Melbourne. Her research investigates gender and its intersection to inequalities, technologies and policies. Professor Ruppanner is a leading expert on COVID-19 and its impact on gender inequality in US and Australia. Her book, Motherlands: How States Push Mothers out of Employment (2020) provides a typo...
Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025
In this week’s episode Sarah and Whitney discuss why we may be attempting to use control in our lives and those around us. From fear of failure, embarrassment, what our value or worth has been tied to, control needs can affect everyone. For our type A or enneagram 1’s out there warning this episode may ruffle your feathers a bit. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sending them to info@previaalliance...
Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025
Sarah is back with holistic natural foods chef and herbalist Abbie Gross to talk about what is obtainable and accessible foods that moms should be eating in postpartum and motherhood and how to incorporate that into our children’s lives. Eating to fuel our bodies shouldn’t be complicated tune it to hear how. Abbie Gross, a holistic natural foods chef, herbalist and Postpartum Doula has been cooking professionally for over 12 years, Abbie enjoys being able to help clients achieve their specifi...
Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025
When trying to get pregnant and being pregnant you hear a lot of “don’ts” when it comes to what you should eat but what about what you should be? In this episode Sarah interviews Abbie Gross trained holistic natural foods chef, herbalist, and Postpartum Doula to discuss just this. Abbie Gross, a holistic natural foods chef, herbalist and Postpartum Doula has been cooking professionally for over 12 years, Abbie enjoys being able to help clients achieve their specific health goals through the p...
Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025
Ever been caught off guard by a seemingly innocent question that hit you right where it hurt? Join Sarah and Whitney as we explore the unspoken rules of conversation, highlighting questions that should never be asked and the emotional turmoil they can cause. By discussing personal experiences and setting boundaries, we delve into the importance of empathetic communication. Follow Previa Alliance! Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videos Keep the questions coming by sen...
Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025
In honor of World Read Out Loud Day (Feb 5th) Sarah is back with author and literacy expert Pam Allyn, to talk about the benefits of reading out loud to your child starting in pregnancy and beyond. Listen in as they discuss the benefits are as much for baby as it is for you and how reading out loud is a weapon against anxiety! Pam Allyn is the founder and CEO of Dewey, a pioneering learning platform built to fuel the wellbeing of families and their caregivers at the powerful intersections of ...
Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025
In the second part of this two-part series, Sarah and Whitney explore the emotional quagmire of making life-altering decisions when emotions run high, learning why it's crucial to sometimes hit 'pause' on big decisions amid the chaos of postpartum life or societal pressures. Remember, perfection is a myth, and prioritizing what truly matters is the key to finding peace amidst the chaos, and most importantly that you are not alone on this journey.Follow Previa Alliance!Previa Alliance (@previa...
Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025
In this two-part series, Sarah and Whitney start by examining all-or-nothing thinking, a mindset that sees the world in black and white. This limiting perspective can lead to self-defeating thoughts, particularly when suffering from stress or exhaustion. Learn how childhood experiences shape our acceptance of positive feedback and discover the power of affirmations in nurturing positive self-talk for all ages, reminding you that you are not alone on this journey. Follow Previa Alliance!P...
Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025
Ever felt like you can't "hear yourself think" amidst the chaos of daily life? Join Sarah and Whitney as they dive into the overwhelming experience of sensory overload that many mothers encounter daily. We discuss the impacts of constant demand, share coping strategies, and emphasize the importance of recognizing rest as a vital component of mental health and overall well-being.Follow Previa Alliance!Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videosKeep the questions coming by ...
Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025
Join us with Previa Playback this holiday season! Happy New Year! Have you ever found yourself a few months into the new year frustrated with your progress toward unrealistic resolutions? If so, then you must join Sarah and Whitney for the first podcast of 2024 as Whitney shares her strategy for leaning into the new year with a positive mindset and with goals that are more in line with motherhood, fitness, and personal growth.Follow Previa Alliance Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • I...
Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2025
Join us with Previa Playback this holiday season! The hustle and bustle of the holidays are over, the parties have ended, and you may be feeling like what is life now? This is when it is a great time to discuss the “Post-holiday crash” aka the after-holiday blues. Listen is as the Sarah and Whitney explain why you are feeling this way and most importantly small things you can do to help you through it.Follow Previa Alliance Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and ...
Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2024
Join us with Previa Playback this holiday season! Join Sarah and Whitney as they get candid about their own experiences navigating tricky family dynamics around the holidays. From tussling with relatives over politics to setting boundaries with confrontational kin, they shed light on it all. They even tackle an unusual scenario involving a grandmother-to-be who insists on being called "mom" by her soon-to-be-born grandson, and how you can peacefully address such peculiar situations. So, tune ...
Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2024
Join us with Previa Playback this holiday season! Life is not Hallmark movies or Pinterest perfect, but sometimes the Holiday season as those perfectly curated Christmas cards make us feel that it is for everyone but us. In today’s episode the ladies discuss why moms battle perfectionism and how to we need to let the comparison game go. Warning if you are a type A mom or enneagram 1 you may feel like we are talking straight to you on this one.Follow Previa Alliance Previa Alliance Podcast (@p...
Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2024
Join us with Previa Playback this holiday season! Maybe it is the hallmark movies or the smells of the season that makes us all feel all the feels. From our childhood memories to missing a loved one during this season-it can bring in all the tears. From grief to unmet expectations to trying to create the “perfect” experience for family it can add up. Listen in as Sarah and Whitney talk about the why the holidays can bring out emotion in us all.Follow Previa Alliance Previa Alliance Podcast (@...
Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2024
Join us with Previa Playback this holiday season! Wrapping present check, a zillion school parties check, feeling like there is so much to do and so little time check check! We know the holiday season is full of stress and emotions and we want to give you the tools to conquer it. Listen in as Sarah & Whitney give you real tools you can use during this crazy season. This one is not to be missed.Follow Previa Alliance Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videosKee...
Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2024
Join us with Previa Playback this holiday season! Along with the joy of Thanksgiving comes the stress of expectations and the memories of loved ones we've lost. So, how can we juggle the demands of the holiday season while bearing the weight of grief? Sarah and Whitney unpack this delicate topic, offering insights into maintaining your mental health while navigating holiday chaos.Follow Previa Alliance Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videosKeep the questions co...
Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2024
Join us with Previa Playback this holiday season! You asked and Whitney is answering. The holidays are tricky when navigating so much with so little time and too many opinions. Listen in as Whitney answers how to deal with exhaustion during the holidays, navigating infertility during the season, and so much more! We promise this one will have you feeling 'seen'!Follow Previa Alliance Previa Alliance Podcast (@previapodcast) • Instagram photos and videosKeep the questions coming by sending the...
Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2024
Join us with Previa Playback this holiday season! The holiday season is upon us which means chaos, cookies, and family politics! In today's episode, we talk about how to answer that aunt who constantly asks when you're having the next kid, the pushy in-law who doesn't take no for an answer, and how to handle the gaslighting that occurs when someone questions your parenting choices. The holidays may bring extra stress, but we are here for you and are ready to share the power of boundaries!Foll...
Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2024
Join us for an insightful conversation with the esteemed Dr. Dalfen, a leading women's mental health psychiatrist, as she opens up about the widespread stigmas surrounding maternal mental health, particularly postpartum depression and anxiety. Her groundbreaking initiatives and her compelling book "When Baby Brings the Blues," provide invaluable support and resources for women navigating the complex challenges of adapting to new motherhood's realities. Whether you're a new mother or a support...
Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2024
Ever wonder why the evening hours feel like they're designed to test every ounce of your patience? You're not alone. Join us as we explore the "witching hour" for moms—a time when exhaustion and sensory overload peak, much like it does for little ones. It's all about finding those small moments of relief and recognizing the importance of a supportive network to get you through.Follow Previa Alliance!Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videosKeep the questions coming by s...
Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2024
In this episode Sarah speaks with Eszter Kalman LSCW, PMH-C from Golden Tears Therapy about her own experience lead her specializing in maternal mental health. From guilt, shame, resentment, rage, and importance of knowing you are not alone this conversation will speak to anyone who is on the road to motherhood or a mom today.Connect with Eszterwww.goldentearstherapy.com@goldentearstherapy • Instagram photos and videosFollow Previa Alliance!Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photo...
Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2024
Trigger warning this episode discusses miscarriage and infant loss.In honor of Pregnancy and Infant loss month, Sarah is speaking with Erin and Stephen Mitchell from Couples Counseling for Parents about the impact of loss on a relationship from how each partner may grieve differently, to the importance of hearing each other’s experience, this is a conversation you need to hear. By opening up about their personal experiences, the Mitchells aim to destigmatize discussions around miscarriage and...
Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2024
We all have people in our lives who are the “strong ones, got it together, juggling it all, working so hard, and always says they are “fine”. But why do we wait for a crisis to check on those people when in reality we need to start checking on them now? Join Sarah and Whitney as they explore the silent struggles of those who appear self-reliant. They share why trusting your instincts and reaching out with simple gestures can provide immense relief. This episode is a call to check in on those ...
Transcribed - Published: 7 October 2024
Join Sarah and Whitney as they lay bare their own experiences with maternal mental health issues, from the inconsistencies in medical advice to the crushing financial barriers imposed by high deductibles. In this episode, they dive into the glaring gaps in maternal mental health care, including the lack of mandatory training for healthcare providers and the absence of federal mandates for mental health screenings. This is more than just a discussion; it's a call to action to recognize materna...
Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2024
Have you ever wondered how to navigate the emotional and physical roller coaster of pregnancy and postpartum life? Join Sarah and Whitney as they share lessons from their own journeys, revealing anxieties about taking medications, pressures from social media, setting clear hospital boundaries, and the importance of sleep. Balancing the joys and challenges of the postpartum period can be overwhelming, and we’re here to help you through it.Follow Previa Alliance!Previa Alliance (@previaalliance...
Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2024
How do you keep it all together when life's curveballs seem never-ending? Join us as we unravel practical strategies for managing overwhelming stress and release those pent-up emotions. Learn about the invisible load mothers often carry, the importance of setting boundaries, and why sometimes saying "no" is a necessary act of self-care.Follow Previa Alliance!Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videosKeep the questions coming by sending them to [email protected] or ...
Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2024
Trigger warning: This episode discusses suicideThe leading cause of death in the first year of childbirth is due to maternal suicide and overdose. This week Sarah and Whitney bring awareness to the topic and discuss common warning signs and how to seek help. We encourage anyone who is struggling with thoughts of self harm to seek help by calling 911/Suicide hotline number 988 or go to your closest emergency room.Follow Previa Alliance!Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and ...
Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2024
In this week’s episode Sarah interview Erin and Stephen Mitchell to talk about relationship struggles that happen in parenthood and how at the end of the day you can find yourself “too tired to fight”. From mental load, to processing loss differently, to finding yourself going to war over the dishwasher…this is a needed conversation to showcase the common conflicts and how to navigate them.Follow Previa Alliance!Previa Alliance (@previaalliance_) • Instagram photos and videosKeep the question...
Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2024
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